What to Do in Port Canaveral Cruise Stop: A Comprehensive Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

What To Do In Port Canaveral Cruise Stop?

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise ship destination, and for good reason. With its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and exciting attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Port Canaveral. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach, a thrilling adventure, or a cultural experience, you’ll find it in Port Canaveral.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top things to do in Port Canaveral, so you can make the most of your next cruise stop.

Activity Cost Description
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex $50-$100 Explore the Kennedy Space Center, where you can see rockets up close, learn about the history of space exploration, and even watch a launch!
Cocoa Beach Pier $0-$20 Take a walk or bike ride along the pier, enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge $0-$10 Explore the natural beauty of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, dolphins, and manatees.

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise ship port located in Florida. It is home to the Kennedy Space Center and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. There are many things to do in Port Canaveral, including visiting the Kennedy Space Center, taking a cruise to the Bahamas, going fishing, and visiting the beaches.

Things to Do in Port Canaveral

  • Visit the Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Florida. It is home to the launch pads for the Space Shuttle and the Saturn V rockets. Visitors can take a tour of the center, learn about the history of space exploration, and see the rockets up close.

  • Take a cruise to the Bahamas

Port Canaveral is a popular departure point for cruises to the Bahamas. There are many different cruise lines that offer cruises to the Bahamas, and there are a variety of different itineraries to choose from. Visitors can choose to take a cruise to the islands of the Bahamas, or they can take a cruise to the Grand Bahamas, which is located just off the coast of Florida.

  • Go fishing

Port Canaveral is located on the Atlantic Ocean, and there are many opportunities for fishing. There are a variety of different fish that can be caught in Port Canaveral, including mackerel, tuna, and grouper. Visitors can fish from the shore, or they can charter a boat to take them out to deeper waters.

  • Visit the beaches

Port Canaveral is home to a number of beautiful beaches. The beaches are clean and sandy, and they offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, or play beach volleyball.

Where to Stay in Port Canaveral

There are many different places to stay in Port Canaveral, including hotels, resorts, condos, and Airbnbs. Visitors can choose to stay in a hotel that is located close to the cruise terminals, or they can choose to stay in a hotel that is located further away from the cruise terminals. There are also a number of resorts and condos that are located in Port Canaveral. These resorts and condos offer a variety of amenities, including pools, restaurants, and fitness centers. Airbnbs are also a popular option for visitors to Port Canaveral. Airbnbs offer a more affordable option for visitors, and they offer a more homey experience.

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise ship port that offers a variety of things to do and see. Visitors can visit the Kennedy Space Center, take a cruise to the Bahamas, go fishing, and visit the beaches. There are also a number of different places to stay in Port Canaveral, including hotels, resorts, condos, and Airbnbs.

Things to Do in Port Canaveral Cruise Stop

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise ship destination, and there are many things to do in the area. Here are a few of the top attractions:

  • Kennedy Space Center: Kennedy Space Center is located just a short drive from Port Canaveral, and it is a must-see for any space enthusiast. The center offers tours of the launch pads, the Vehicle Assembly Building, and the Apollo/Saturn V Center. Visitors can also see the Space Shuttle Atlantis up close.
  • The Brevard Zoo: The Brevard Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and giraffes. The zoo also has a children’s area with a petting zoo and a playground.
  • The Exploration Tower: The Exploration Tower is a 220-foot observation tower that offers panoramic views of Port Canaveral and the surrounding area. The tower also has a restaurant and a gift shop.
  • The Cocoa Beach Pier: The Cocoa Beach Pier is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and sunbathing. The pier also has a number of restaurants and shops.
  • The Canaveral National Seashore: The Canaveral National Seashore is a protected area that offers beautiful beaches, dunes, and wildlife. The seashore is also home to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

In addition to these attractions, there are also a number of restaurants, bars, and shops in Port Canaveral. The city is also home to a number of hotels and resorts, so visitors can easily find a place to stay.

Things to Eat in Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral has a variety of restaurants to choose from, including seafood restaurants, pizza restaurants, steakhouses, and fast food restaurants. Here are a few of the top restaurants in Port Canaveral:

  • Seafood restaurants:
  • The Crab Shack: The Crab Shack is a popular seafood restaurant that offers a variety of seafood dishes, including crab, lobster, and shrimp.
  • Bubba Gump Shrimp Company: Bubba Gump Shrimp Company is a casual dining restaurant that serves shrimp in a variety of ways. The restaurant is based on the movie “Forrest Gump.”
  • The Hungry Sailor: The Hungry Sailor is a seafood restaurant that offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant also has a bar with live music.
  • Pizza restaurants:
  • Mellow Mushroom: Mellow Mushroom is a pizza restaurant that offers a variety of pizzas, calzones, and salads. The restaurant also has a bar with a variety of beers and wines.
  • Pizza Hut: Pizza Hut is a popular pizza chain that offers a variety of pizzas, sides, and drinks. The restaurant also has a drive-thru.
  • Papa John’s: Papa John’s is another popular pizza chain that offers a variety of pizzas, sides, and drinks. The restaurant also has a drive-thru.
  • Steakhouses:
  • The Capital Grille: The Capital Grille is a high-end steakhouse that offers a variety of steak, seafood, and pasta dishes. The restaurant also has a wine list with over 1,000 selections.
  • Morton’s The Steakhouse: Morton’s The Steakhouse is another high-end steakhouse that offers a variety of steak, seafood, and pasta dishes. The restaurant also has a wine list with over 1,000 selections.
  • Ruth’s Chris Steak House: Ruth’s Chris Steak House is a high-end steakhouse that offers a variety of steak, seafood, and pasta dishes. The restaurant also has a wine list with over 1,000 selections.
  • Fast food restaurants:
  • McDonald’s: McDonald’s is a popular fast food chain that offers a variety of burgers, fries, and chicken nuggets.
  • Burger King: Burger King is another popular fast food chain that offers a variety of burgers, fries, and chicken nuggets.
  • Wendy’s: Wendy’s is a fast food chain that offers a variety of burgers, fries, and chicken nuggets.

Getting Around Port Canaveral

There are a few different ways to get around Port Canaveral. Here are the most common options:

  • By car: Port Canaveral is located about 50 miles from Orlando International Airport. The drive takes about an hour and a half. There are also a number of rental car companies located in Port Canaveral.
  • By bus: There are a few bus routes that serve Port Canaveral. The most popular route is the 101X, which runs from Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral. The ride takes about an hour and a half.

* **By taxi

What are the best things to do in Port Canaveral?

  • Visit Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Learn about the history of the space program and see real rockets up close.
  • Take a cruise to the Bahamas or the Caribbean: Enjoy a day or a week of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring new islands.
  • Go fishing: Port Canaveral is located on the Atlantic Ocean, so there are plenty of opportunities to catch fish.
  • Visit the beaches: There are several beautiful beaches within a short drive of Port Canaveral.
  • Play golf: There are several golf courses within a short drive of Port Canaveral.
  • Go shopping: There are plenty of stores and boutiques in Port Canaveral where you can find souvenirs and other items.
  • Visit the restaurants: Port Canaveral has a variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from casual fare to fine dining.

What is the best way to get around Port Canaveral?

  • The best way to get around Port Canaveral is by shuttle bus. There are several shuttle bus companies that operate in Port Canaveral, and they can take you to all of the major attractions.
  • You can also get around Port Canaveral by taxi or Uber.
  • If you are staying at a hotel in Port Canaveral, they may offer free shuttle service to and from the cruise terminals.

What is the weather like in Port Canaveral?

The weather in Port Canaveral is typically warm and sunny, with an average temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmest months are June, July, and August, with average temperatures of 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The coolest months are December, January, and February, with average temperatures of 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the best time to visit Port Canaveral?

The best time to visit Port Canaveral is during the winter months, from December to February. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are fewer crowds.

Where should I stay in Port Canaveral?

There are several hotels and resorts in Port Canaveral, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious accommodations. Some of the most popular hotels and resorts include:

  • The Port Canaveral Resort & Spa
  • The Hilton Garden Inn Port Canaveral
  • The Holiday Inn Express Port Canaveral
  • The Comfort Suites Port Canaveral
  • The Days Inn Port Canaveral

What are the best restaurants in Port Canaveral?

There are a variety of restaurants in Port Canaveral, serving everything from casual fare to fine dining. Some of the most popular restaurants include:

  • Bubba Gump Shrimp Company
  • The Hard Rock Cafe
  • The Cheesecake Factory
  • The Olive Garden
  • The Melting Pot

What are the best things to do for free in Port Canaveral?

There are a number of free things to do in Port Canaveral, including:

  • Visit the Port Canaveral History Museum
  • Take a walk or bike ride along the Intracoastal Waterway
  • Go for a swim at one of the city’s many beaches
  • Enjoy a picnic in one of the city’s parks
  • Visit the Port Canaveral Farmers Market

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise destination for good reason. It offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages, from exploring the Kennedy Space Center to relaxing on the beach. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation or a romantic getaway, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Port Canaveral.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • Port Canaveral is located just a short drive from Orlando, making it a convenient option for those who want to explore both the theme parks and the beach.
  • The port offers a variety of cruise lines and destinations to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect trip for your needs.
  • Port Canaveral has a variety of attractions and activities to keep you entertained, including the Kennedy Space Center, the Port Canaveral Historical Museum, and the Cocoa Beach Pier.
  • The port is also home to a number of restaurants, shops, and bars, so you can find everything you need without having to leave.

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting vacation destination, be sure to consider Port Canaveral. You won’t be disappointed.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.